Life After Lary is proud to announce the appointment of Dr Laura Charlesworth as Ambassador to the charity, strengthening its commitment to improving support and outcomes for people affected by head and neck cancer.
Dr Charlesworth is a HCPC registered Therapeutic Radiographer with more than 17 years of experience spanning clinical practice, academia, research and national strategic roles. She currently serves as a Health Services Research Fellow at York St John University and will take up a post as Associate Professor in April. Alongside her academic work, she has held a national role with The Society and College of Radiographers, contributing to professional standards, education and workforce development. Her research focuses on improving cancer care experiences and outcomes, particularly for people and communities who experience inequality. Her PhD explored cancer and severe mental illness, examining how comorbidity shapes patient experience and what this means for more personalised and equitable care.
Throughout her career she has worked at the interface of research, policy and practice, including roles with organisations such as Public Health England and Cancer Research UK. Dr Charlesworth’s commitment to Life After Lary is also deeply personal. In late 2024, her husband was diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Navigating the pathway as a carer, while working full time and caring for a young child, has shaped her perspective and reinforced her belief in compassionate, joined up services that place patient and carer voices at the centre of care.
Life After Lary is a patient led charity dedicated to ensuring that no one faces life after laryngectomy alone. Through peer support, practical resources and community connection, the charity works to empower individuals and families navigating life changing surgery and its aftermath. Jono Organ, Chair of Life After Lary, said: “We are honoured to welcome Dr Laura Charlesworth as an Ambassador. Laura brings not only exceptional professional expertise in cancer research and education, but also lived experience as a carer. Her insight, integrity and commitment to improving cancer care align closely with our mission to provide compassionate, evidence informed support to our community.”
Dr Charlesworth said: “I have been inspired by the passion and drive behind Life After Lary. Supporting the charity’s vision and contributing to meaningful, evidence informed change for people affected by cancer is work that matters to me, both personally and professionally.”
As Ambassador, Dr Charlesworth will support the charity through advocacy, professional insight and, where appropriate, public engagement and awareness activity. Her appointment marks an important step in strengthening the charity’s voice within both clinical and research communities.
For further information, please contact: contact@lifeafterlary.co.uk
